Nutsac bags

[Defender]

On 10/15/2024 at 11:18 AM, Defender said:

While I still love the waxed canvas looks of the nutsac bags,they just aren’t big enough, don’t have enough features plus are way too expensive, so I found a Vertx Essentials 2.0 Sling Bag that works for now.  I can fit my daily carry in it as well as my 13’’ iPad pro(barely) when I need to.  It’s got a grab handle in addition to the sling.  It has a quick access concealed carry compartment that Velcro sticks to that I use for spare mags and flashlights.  It also has in one compartment a Molle system.  I’d like the bag to be just slightly bigger, but not much, LOL.  Oh and as you can see, it doesn’t scream tactical. I may move up to a vertx commuter size if I can find one locally to see.

I got another Vertx bag, the Transit Sling 2, but i didn't like it at all.  Had less room actually than my essentials bag, above, so i returned it and ordered the Vertx Commuter 3.0.  It arrived today and it is definitely bigger than the essentials, but I'm just not sure i like it enough for EDC.  Dang I'm hard to please. I'm going to play with it for a few days and see if i learn to appreciate it.   If not ill just stick with the Essentials bag.  

[Defender]

4 hours ago, Defender said:

I got another Vertx bag, the Transit Sling 2, but i didn't like it at all.  Had less room actually than my essentials bag, above, so i returned it and ordered the Vertx Commuter 3.0.  It arrived today and it is definitely bigger than the essentials, but I'm just not sure i like it enough for EDC.  Dang I'm hard to please. I'm going to play with it for a few days and see if i learn to appreciate it.   If not ill just stick with the Essentials bag.  

Whelp, I’m back to the Vertx essentials again.  After loading and attaching everything to the commuter, it was just too big and bulky.  It has a lot of advantages, and is an awesome non-tactical app earning bag with interior tactical features. I want to get it and a few other bags I’m not using together and post them up for sale on here really soon. I’m going to lose money on it most likely, so if anyone has been looking I g for one, keep an eye on TGO.

[Defender]

We really should change the title of this thread, LOL.  I’ve been looking at bags online, I’m very hard to please.  I sent my Vertx Commuter sling back. I see that Vertx has a new line called the Urban Ghost and I kinda like the 10L sling version but i am sure it will be too small. I also was looking at the Maxpedition Entity 16L sling as well.  I think if they built a man bag store that had all the different bags to look at I’d be a happy camper! I don’t off body carry, I do carry extra full mags in my bag, and I have a Velcro holster attached in the conceal carry compartment, just in case, but I the other than making sure my gun fit and that I could deploy it reasonably fast, I don’t use it. I’m not giving up my essentials 10L bag for another 10L bag, what I’d like to have is a bag just like this but taller a tad.  The Navigator isn’t any bugger, just laid out differently..does anyone on here in the Nashville area have a Maxpedition Entity16 that they would let me look at?

[TGO David]

I've been traveling for work a lot lately and it has given me some opportunities to see what works, what doesn't, what is important, and what isn't.

 

My first observation is that I think the ideal backpack size for travel or commuting is between 20L and 26L.  Depending on the length of my trip and the amount of clothing I have to take with me, I am pairing-up my backpack with a carry-on roller suitcase or a larger checked-back.  The backpack itself is for my laptop, water bottle, medicines and toiletries I absolutely wouldn't want to be separated from, and sometimes a sweatshirt or light jacket.

Obviously, the bigger the bag, the less room you have for your feet under the airline seat in front of you.  This matters more on longer flights.

 

The bag I've been using most, lately, is my Mystery Ranch 2-Day bag.  (Note:  That's an affiliate link that helps TGO)

 

 

 

The bad news is that there's nothing subtle about this bag and it's on the larger end of the spectrum.  The good news, however, is that it is insanely versatile, very adjustable, extremely comfortable, and has proven to be quite rugged.  Plus it does fit under the seat on Southwest Airlines.

The three-way zipper closure on this and several of their Catalyst bags has turned out to be a feature I had no idea how much I'd appreciate until I tried it.  Being able to either unzip the top flap for quick access to things, or split the bag wide open has been super convenient.

I'm also fond of the two side pockets that will either tote 32oz water bottles or a bottle and umbrella with ease.  You don't realize how important easy access to a water bottle is until you're parched, inside the TSA security gate, and ready to fill up at one of the filtered water stations.  Having to sort through a bag of stuff just to get your water bottle is a huge pain.

Another plus is that this bag has a flat bottom and does not tip over easily so long as you load it properly and keep the heavier items at the bottom of the bag.  Having a bag that doesn't constantly flop over into the aisle while you're sitting at the airport gate is a small luxury.  Of course it also plays well at the office.

 

Whether or not this thing is perfect is yet to be seen. 

Other bags keep catching my eye, particularly those with a more slim, slick, or sleek external appearance, but I keep talking myself out of them because they lack things that I've come to really like about this Mystery Ranch 2-Day bag.

The load-lifters at the top of this bag's shoulder straps where the meet the body of the bag itself really do make a big difference in comfort and adjustability.  And the shoulder straps themselves are very well padded and have quick adjust buckles so that you can loosen it for easier on/off, and cinch it down fast once it's on.  I am surprised at how few bags incorporate load lifters or have thin, flimsy shoulder straps without quick adjustment.

I am also a fan of the fact that there are two additional deep pockets inside the bag that can either be used to stow things like travel umbrella, water bottles, coffee tumblers, etc.  That's in addition to the two outside, so you can run it a little more slick by keeping things inside rather than outside the bag.

 

Anyway... just thoughts from recent travels.  This thread caught my eye because I keep looking at other bags coming up on Black Friday sales and just can't talk myself into any of them yet.

 

 

[Handsome Rob]

13 hours ago, TGO David said:

I've been traveling for work a lot lately and it has given me some opportunities to see what works, what doesn't, what is important, and what isn't.

 

My first observation is that I think the ideal backpack size for travel or commuting is between 20L and 26L.  Depending on the length of my trip and the amount of clothing I have to take with me, I am pairing-up my backpack with a carry-on roller suitcase or a larger checked-back.  The backpack itself is for my laptop, water bottle, medicines and toiletries I absolutely wouldn't want to be separated from, and sometimes a sweatshirt or light jacket.

Obviously, the bigger the bag, the less room you have for your feet under the airline seat in front of you.  This matters more on longer flights.

 

The bag I've been using most, lately, is my Mystery Ranch 2-Day bag.  (Note:  That's an affiliate link that helps TGO)

 

 

 

The bad news is that there's nothing subtle about this bag and it's on the larger end of the spectrum.  The good news, however, is that it is insanely versatile, very adjustable, extremely comfortable, and has proven to be quite rugged.  Plus it does fit under the seat on Southwest Airlines.

The three-way zipper closure on this and several of their Catalyst bags has turned out to be a feature I had no idea how much I'd appreciate until I tried it.  Being able to either unzip the top flap for quick access to things, or split the bag wide open has been super convenient.

I'm also fond of the two side pockets that will either tote 32oz water bottles or a bottle and umbrella with ease.  You don't realize how important easy access to a water bottle is until you're parched, inside the TSA security gate, and ready to fill up at one of the filtered water stations.  Having to sort through a bag of stuff just to get your water bottle is a huge pain.

Another plus is that this bag has a flat bottom and does not tip over easily so long as you load it properly and keep the heavier items at the bottom of the bag.  Having a bag that doesn't constantly flop over into the aisle while you're sitting at the airport gate is a small luxury.  Of course it also plays well at the office.

 

Whether or not this thing is perfect is yet to be seen. 

Other bags keep catching my eye, particularly those with a more slim, slick, or sleek external appearance, but I keep talking myself out of them because they lack things that I've come to really like about this Mystery Ranch 2-Day bag.

The load-lifters at the top of this bag's shoulder straps where the meet the body of the bag itself really do make a big difference in comfort and adjustability.  And the shoulder straps themselves are very well padded and have quick adjust buckles so that you can loosen it for easier on/off, and cinch it down fast once it's on.  I am surprised at how few bags incorporate load lifters or have thin, flimsy shoulder straps without quick adjustment.

I am also a fan of the fact that there are two additional deep pockets inside the bag that can either be used to stow things like travel umbrella, water bottles, coffee tumblers, etc.  That's in addition to the two outside, so you can run it a little more slick by keeping things inside rather than outside the bag.

 

Anyway... just thoughts from recent travels.  This thread caught my eye because I keep looking at other bags coming up on Black Friday sales and just can't talk myself into any of them yet.

 

 

I have a MR Pop-Up 28 as my go to hunting pack. After fannying around trying to find THE backpack for years, this is as close to perfection as I've found. Sensible outside pockets & a generous lid pocket, without being bulky. Fantastic suspension & the expandable frame with adjustable height load lifters & load shelf makes sizing it up to carry heavy loads a breeze.

I won't lie & say it's 'comfortable' comfortable, but it'll carry 80lb as comfortably as 80lb can be carried

In its regular configuration, it's TSA size approved & a great daypack size. My one wish, would be to have the triple zipper, with a vertical zipper running, at least, to the top of the slightly smaller (drop it's height by 2") pocket. Oh, & lose a little structure in the sides of the belt. It's impossible to lay it down flat.

THEN it'd be perfect. 

 

 

[Defender]

Ps.I don’t. Want a big pack for my EDC bag.  I’ve been looking at the Maxpedtion Entity series, specifically the 16 and 21 which are pretty similar except the 16 is smaller with a sling and the 21 has normal backpack straps.  The 21 would carry my everyday EDC gear plus have room for more without being too big,  I would have preferred it to be a sling also but I doesn’t come that way. I’ve watch so many reviews my head is spinning but I think I want the 21L  Been looking for a deal but haven’t found one yet.  Anyone have one?

[Handsome Rob]

Ahhh hell......

 

https://www.kuiu.com/products/venture-1800-evergreen

[Defender]

52 minutes ago, Handsome Rob said:

Ahhh hell......

 

https://www.kuiu.com/products/venture-1800-evergreen

Not looking for a big pack myself, but that looks like an awesome pack for a very reasonable price.

[Handsome Rob]

I'll find out in 3-5 working days, I guess. 

[TGO David]

23 hours ago, Defender said:

Ps.I don’t. Want a big pack for my EDC bag.  I’ve been looking at the Maxpedtion Entity series, specifically the 16 and 21 which are pretty similar except the 16 is smaller with a sling and the 21 has normal backpack straps.  The 21 would carry my everyday EDC gear plus have room for more without being too big,  I would have preferred it to be a sling also but I doesn’t come that way. I’ve watch so many reviews my head is spinning but I think I want the 21L  Been looking for a deal but haven’t found one yet.  Anyone have one?

How about this 21L bag?

SERT, PENUMBRA 2.0 Backpack – Alpha One Niner

 

Or the Go-Ruck GR1 comes in 21L also.

GR1 | GORUCK

 

Vertx also just released a 20L Urban Ghost backpack.

Urban Ghost 20L Minimalist Backpack

 

[Handsome Rob]

2 hours ago, TGO David said:

How about this 21L bag?

SERT, PENUMBRA 2.0 Backpack – Alpha One Niner

 

Or the Go-Ruck GR1 comes in 21L also.

GR1 | GORUCK

 

Vertx also just released a 20L Urban Ghost backpack.

Urban Ghost 20L Minimalist Backpack

 

Man, those folks must be paying a fortune to someone for thinking up their prices. DAMN! Are the zippers made from Mithril???

Basic-ass pack for $335??? I bet they're FLYING off the shelves.......

[Defender]

11 hours ago, TGO David said:

How about this 21L bag?

SERT, PENUMBRA 2.0 Backpack – Alpha One Niner

 

Or the Go-Ruck GR1 comes in 21L also.

GR1 | GORUCK

 

Vertx also just released a 20L Urban Ghost backpack.

Urban Ghost 20L Minimalist Backpack

 

Thanks.  I’m tired of buying bags, and then either returning them or putting them in a closet.  At my age, with my physical limitations, I doubt I’ll be doing any rucking, though I do keep a get home bag in my truck. I’m looking hard at the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L and the Maxpedition Entity 21L.  I like having loop lined in most sections for customization and the Vertx might be better in that regard. Wish there was a man bag store in/near Nashville’s, LOL.  Heck if women can have them, why not us?  But maybe call it something other than that…maybe Men’s Travel Store or something.

[Defender]

Saw a really good review of the Vertx Urban Ghost 20L and that pushed me over the edge.  Couldn’t find a source cheaper than 175 on Vertx web site , then finally tried GOVX.  For those familiar with it, sometimes you can find it way cheaper other place and sometimes they give you a great deal.  I had a 15$ coupon code so with shipping and everything, I paid 125.57.  Hope to discover that I love the bag, LOL. I’ll post my experience in case anyone else is interested in this bag.

[BigK]

7 hours ago, Defender said:

...Wish there was a man bag store in/near Nashville’s, LOL.  Heck if women can have them, why not us?  But maybe call it something other than that…maybe Men’s Travel Store or something.

Harry's Sack Shack has a nice ring to it.

[River02]

Have you ever looked EBERLESTOCK pacs/bags? Quality and versatility is all there-- I have a couple. The one I have set up for EDC is the BANDIT. But they have several options-- you might be interested to take a look if you have never seen them before.

https://eberlestock.com/collections/edc-packs

[Defender]

2 hours ago, River02 said:

Have you ever looked EBERLESTOCK pacs/bags? Quality and versatility is all there-- I have a couple. The one I have set up for EDC is the BANDIT. But they have several options-- you might be interested to take a look if you have never seen them before.

https://eberlestock.com/collections/edc-packs

Thanks.  I had,but ruled them out prematurely, not seeing all of their line.  Hopefully the bag I ordered will be the bomb and my quest will end.  If not, I’ll relook at these.  Thanks.

[BigK]

On 11/23/2024 at 1:13 PM, River02 said:

Have you ever looked EBERLESTOCK pacs/bags? Quality and versatility is all there-- I have a couple. The one I have set up for EDC is the BANDIT. But they have several options-- you might be interested to take a look if you have never seen them before.

https://eberlestock.com/collections/edc-packs

I agree about their quality. I wish they made more sling bag options.

[River02]

18 hours ago, BigK said:

I agree about their quality. I wish they made more sling bag options.

I have no experience using sling bags-- can you enlighten me on the advantages you see in them...any drawbacks?

Edited November 25 by River02
missing word

[BigK]

1 hour ago, River02 said:

I have no experience using sling bags-- can you enlighten me on the advantages you see in them...any drawbacks?

My favorite thing about sling bags is that I can easily spin it around to my chest to access the interior w/out taking it off. This also comes in handy in tighter spots because you can swing it around to the side to shimmy between people in a crowd for instance. I may be nitpicking on this one, but backpack straps always block my access to shirt pockets, which I use a lot. Also, I don't tote enough stuff to warrant a backpack and slings tend to be smaller, which I prefer (10-15 liters is my ideal size). 

A fair drawback is that all the weight is on one shoulder instead of two. You could also say that the smaller size means less capacity, so that one can go both ways. 

[Defender]

2 hours ago, BigK said:

My favorite thing about sling bags is that I can easily spin it around to my chest to access the interior w/out taking it off. This also comes in handy in tighter spots because you can swing it around to the side to shimmy between people in a crowd for instance. I may be nitpicking on this one, but backpack straps always block my access to shirt pockets, which I use a lot. Also, I don't tote enough stuff to warrant a backpack and slings tend to be smaller, which I prefer (10-15 liters is my ideal size). 

A fair drawback is that all the weight is on one shoulder instead of two. You could also say that the smaller size means less capacity, so that one can go both ways. 

I much prefer a sling, but couldn’t find the right one this time so am trying a 20L pack.  I’m afraid it’ll be too big but we’ll see.

[River02]

15 hours ago, BigK said:

My favorite thing about sling bags is that I can easily spin it around to my chest to access the interior w/out taking it off. This also comes in handy in tighter spots because you can swing it around to the side to shimmy between people in a crowd for instance. I may be nitpicking on this one, but backpack straps always block my access to shirt pockets, which I use a lot. Also, I don't tote enough stuff to warrant a backpack and slings tend to be smaller, which I prefer (10-15 liters is my ideal size). 

A fair drawback is that all the weight is on one shoulder instead of two. You could also say that the smaller size means less capacity, so that one can go both ways. 

Got it-- thanks for taking the time to explain. I can see the draw of them-- I've seen a few in pictures but less so out in the wild. I too prefer a smaller pac and that's the primary reason I went with Eberlestock's "Bandit" as my choice for a lightweight and versatile option for EDC. At 13.65L it's right in the sweet spot for me. The MOLLE webbing provides ready options for creating more space in a pinch if needed-- for a short term solution. The availability of color schemes allows for that "Grey Man" mystique if that's a concern. Not so much here in Tennessee-- but where I moved from in Maryland that tended to be a  concern for a fair number of the guys.

Thanks again-- I hope Defender's pack winds up working for him. It seems like finding the right holster(s) and pacs is a adventure/journey all its own.